Recall of Perdue Chicken Nuggets: What to Know

What Prompted the Perdue Chicken Nuggets Recall

The recall was initiated after Perdue became aware of potential deviations in its process that could allow undercooked poultry parts to remain in the blend used for nugget production. Undercooked poultry can contain pathogens such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, which are public health concerns when not properly handled and cooked. Performed in a controlled facility, this production step is critical for ensuring the safety and consistency of ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat products, and the deviation triggered an action to remove affected product from stores and food service outlets.

Reason for the recall

The specific cause was identified as a process deviation that increased the risk that some pieces were not fully cooked during production, potentially allowing raw or undercooked components to remain in the nugget mix. Perdue announced the recall as a precaution to prevent possible illness from undercooked poultry, and the decision followed both internal checks and communication with food-safety regulators. Such deviations in processing, though rare, underscore the importance of critical control points in modern poultry production systems.

Products and production codes involved

The recall focused on certain sizes and formats of Perdue chicken nuggets produced at the facility where the deviation was detected. Only specific production codes and date/codes were affected; all other Perdue nugget products were not part of this action. Consumers are advised to check the lot number and date code on packaging and to refer to the official recall notice for complete lists of affected items. Items not matching the listed codes are not implicated.

How to Find Your Package and What to Check

To determine whether your package is part of the recall, locate the lot number and date code printed on the packaging, usually found near the nutrition label or on the back of the tray. Compare these codes against the official list provided by Perdue or posted by the regulatory agency that announced the recall. If your package matches the affected lot, do not consume the product; instead follow the return instructions outlined below.

Where to locate lot and date codes

• Retail packages: On the side or back of the cardboard tray or bag, often in small type near the barcode area.
• Restaurant or institutional packaging: Typically on the outer carton or the service tray insert, depending on how the product was supplied.
• Online and delivery orders: Confirm the lot date at delivery and keep the original packaging information until the product is cooked and consumed.

Health Risks and Safe Handling Practices

Undercooked poultry can carry bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, which can cause foodborne illness if the product is consumed without further cooking. Proper cooking to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) kills these pathogens, making the product safe to eat. If you have any of the recalled product in your home, do not taste it to "check" whether it is cooked; use a food thermometer and cook to the recommended temperature to ensure safety.

Pathogen concerns specific to this recall

While thorough cooking eliminates the risk, consuming undercooked pieces that contain raw poultry can lead to gastrointestinal illness. People with weakened immune systems, older adults, young children, and pregnant individuals are at higher risk for severe outcomes from Salmonella and Campylobacter infections. The recall aims to remove product from retail and food-service environments to prevent these outcomes and to give consumers a clear course of action.

Steps for Consumers and Retailers

Consumers who have purchased the recalled product should stop using it, save the packaging, and return it to the place of purchase for a refund or dispose of it safely. Retailers and food-service operators should remove the affected items from shelves, freezers, or storage areas, and follow the instructions provided by their distributors. Perdue and its partners may coordinate with regulators to ensure that communication and logistics are handled efficiently, minimizing disruption while protecting public health.

What to do with recalled product

1. Do not cook or eat the recalled nuggets.
2. Check packaging for the lot number and date code.
3. Keep the original packaging and proof of purchase.
4. Return the item to the store for a refund or follow disposal instructions.
5. Clean any surfaces or containers that may have held the product.

Official References and Verification

Information about a recall is best confirmed through the issuing company and relevant food-safety agencies. Official statements, recall notices, and guidance documents provide the most reliable details on affected products, lot codes, and recommended actions. Consumers are encouraged to rely on these authoritative sources rather than unofficial reports or rumors.

How recalls are classified and announced

Recalls are categorized by the level of health risk they pose, with classifications such as Class I, II, or III indicating the severity and urgency of the action. The announcement of a recall typically includes the company name, product description, lot codes, and instructions for consumers. Regulatory agencies may issue public alerts and work with the company to ensure widespread communication across retail and media channels.